Update from Dutchess Veterans Services
Dutchess County Veterans,
In these trying times, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at the Division of Veterans’ Services. We continue to be available and ready to serve you, and your families. While our front door remains open, we are trying to limit our communication to telephone only. Dutchess County DVS can be reached at (845) 486-2060 from 9am-5pm, Monday – Friday. All VA benefits counseling will be conducted through telephone and mail until further notice.
The COVID-19 pandemic has interrupted people’s ability to work and receive a paycheck, and for most, missing even one paycheck can cause a great deal of hardship. Dutchess County has worked hard toward investing and securing the veteran community’s health and wellbeing. If a Dutchess County Veteran is facing financial hardship due to temporary unemployment, or unexpected expenses, the newly created Tom Zurhellen Fund is available to veterans to apply for emergency financial assistance during times of uncertainty such as this. We are committed to ensuring that Dutchess County Veterans maintain their housing as a priority, and do not experience long term hardships due to short term unforeseen circumstances. Please contact the Dutchess County Division of Veterans’ Services for more information and/or to apply.
Additionally, our traditional volunteer sources for VA transportation have been interrupted. Veterans can utilize the Dutchess County Public Transit on-demand service for trips originating and ending within Dutchess County for the limited purposes of visiting the pharmacy for pick-up and drop-off of prescriptions, food shopping centers, Doctor’s office or health care facility for medical needs only. To schedule this service, please call Dutchess County’s Coronavirus Information Line at 845-486-3555, option 6. Please have the passenger name, phone number, pick up address and destination address ready during your call. Please have your Veteran ID ready at the time of pickup.
We appreciate your sacrifice and commitment to our country and community. Please be safe, and never hesitate to call with any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Marc Coviello
Director, Dutchess County Veterans’ Services
